Expensive Burial No Guarantee For Paradise, Cleric Tells Christians

Expensive Burial No Guarantee For Paradise, Cleric Tells Christians
The Rev. Fr. Godfrey Gopep, the Parish Priest of St. Finberrs’ Catholic Church, Rayfield, Jos, has advised Christians to desist from organising expensive burials.

Gopep, who is also the Chaplain, Plateau Government House Chapel, gave the advice in his sermon on Sunday in Jos.

The cleric, who decried the high cost of burials, particularly among Christians, said the ceremony, which ought to be solemn, had become a “show” in society.

He explained that organising an expensive burial for a loved one was not a guarantee that the deceased would make it to heaven, hence it should be done in a moderate manner.

“I have observed that most Christian burials are expensive; we sink a huge amount of money into burying our loved ones.

“Sometimes, those who donate huge sums for the burial didn’t support the deceased when he or she was alive and needed the help most.

“It has become like a show and a competition among families; I heard that some churches now demand a fee before they conduct funerals.

“So, I want to strongly advise Christians to cut down on how they spend huge amounts on burying the dead and learn to support people when they are alive,” he advised.

Gopep also advised Christians to desist from expensive lifestyles and cater for the needs of the poor and the less privileged in society. (NAN)